北京

The imperial city’s landmarks, still-smoking alleys and sumptuous northern cuisine make it a perfect place to take your time to explore between classic attractions.

大同

Datong brings together layers of Northern Wei capital history, Liao and Jin Buddhist architecture, Ming-era defenses and a modern coal city in a cold, dry basin. The Yungang Grottoes lie west of the city, while the Hanging Temple is a separate trip to Hunyuan County. Although notable old temples survive within the reconstructed old town, not every street is an original historic structure. Plan visits by period and location.